Skincare can be overwhelming, with so many steps and routines to follow, especially with the rise of Korean skincare — you probably wonder what you really need to buy. Before you *add to cart,* make sure you know what skincare needs you want to address. Do you have a shiny T-zone? Do you have enlarged pores? Does your skin get greasy even after cleansing? If the answer is yes, then you have oily skin.
The goal with oily skin is to find a balance between acne control, oil control, clear pores, and a moisturized and hydrated skin barrier for a natural glow (you can have oily skin that’s still dehydrated). The more you overly strip your skin, the more it fights back by producing more oil, dumping you back at square one. Psst, all the products featured are non-comedogenic, which means they won’t clog your pores.
We cover seven product categories here, but if you’re not sure where to start, go with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. There’s no need to worry about a more complicated routine right away, and we feature choices for each that help fit a variety of oily skin needs.
Feeling ready to expand and introduce more into your routine? We’ve got you covered, too. First up, face masks, which you’d use on an occasional basis when you need a reset or relaxation. Clay is your best friend for soaking up that shine while still leaving skin nice and soft. Exfoliation can also help remove impurities, dead skin cells, and unclog stubborn blackheads.
Next, you’ll find toners and essences: thinner, liquid, often water-based products that quickly absorb into your skin after cleansing to help gently exfoliate, add extra hydration, or help mattify. Think of them as a primer for the other layers of product, prepping the skin by softening it for the next optional step: serums and other actives.
Serums are more potent and fast-absorbing, and often feature active ingredients to really target specific skin needs. Niacinamide, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid are a few of the superstars that help boost hydration, reduce oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Skincare is not one-size-fits-all, so check out these oily-skin-approved options to find what might work for you *and* your budget. Where relevant, we provided the price per ounce, so you know what’s really cheaper. Plug in your skincare fridge — it’s time to stock up!